[Question #4833] A confusing Herpes scenario

77 months ago

In Sept 2006 I tested negative for Herpes IGM and IGG 1/2. In April 2007 I started getting burning urination which was followed 10 days later by itching and what appeared to be 2 blisters on my penis shaft. I immediately tested again. The IGM was positive and IGG 1/2 both negative which confirmed that it was a “possible” first infection/outbreak. The sores went away within a couple days. I did research and started taking Lysine and red marine algae. 8 weeks later I went back in for testing. Both IGM and IGG 1/2 were negative. Over the next 11 years I have been symptom free, still taking lysine and red algae, and have randomly tested negative over the years for both IGG1 and IGG2 a total of 7 times since the initial episode.

My question is: Is it possible I never had Herpes to begin with? Or I suppressed it to undetectable antibody levels by the lysine/algae? Or I possibly cured it as crazy as that sounds? In 7 tests and 11 years I have never tested positive for IGG 1 or 2.

I’ve also noticed many different versions of these tests available: HerpeSelect, Type Specific Immunoblot by ELISA/IFA, western blot, Type 1/2 DNA PCR blood test. Are any of these tests superior to my specific situation? Would the DNA/PCR blood test prove more effective in seeing if I do have the herpes virus in my system since it looks for the actual genetic material of the virus itself?

I know I should just be thankful and happy at where I’m at currently but the mystery still bothers me to this day. Any insight would be appreciated.

Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner

77 months ago

It is certainly possible that you never had herpes. The IgM has a huge false positive rate and the CDC does not recommend it be used.

PCR should not be used in a blood test, only a swab test - it looks for virus and the herpes virus is only extremely rarely present in blood.

The IgG test misses 30% of HSV 1 infection and 8% of HSV 2 infections compared to the gold standard western blot. If you really want to settle this issue in your own head, get the western blot for a definitive answer.

terri

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77 months ago

That certainly makes me feel a lot better about all the misleading info circulating out there. One more quick question. In your expert opinion would the 7 negative IgG tests (despite their % flaws) be a good indicator that I am most likely negative? I am definitely looking into getting the western blot, but just curious.

Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner

77 months ago

They are certainly very hopeful, yes! You know the numbers, you can judge what those numbers mean to you. there is an excellent chance that you don't have HSV 2 and a good chance you don't have HSV 1.

Terri

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77 months ago

Thank you. I am definitely going to get a Western blot. I found that the only way to do that is to get an info packet from UW and present that to my healthcare provider OR be a part of your study correct? Are you still conducting the study? The Westoverheights site says it is still available. I also have found a "Anylabtestnow" facility near me. Would you be able to order the test for me after the "evisit" and I can then go directly to the lab?

Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner

77 months ago

We are still conducting the study, yes, and we can arrange the draw for you at an anylabtestnow near you, yes. If you have the kit, you can go directly to the lab after we talk, yes!

Terri

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